July is UV Safety Month

July is UV Safety Month and a perfect time to renew your commitment to protecting your eyes against the damaging impacts of the sun. Excessive sun exposure is linked to a number of serious and vision stealing disorders including cataracts and ocular cancer, making it important that you take steps to protect your eyes from sun damage this and every other month of the year.

Sunglasses are the most effective protection against UV damage to the eyes, but not every pair of sunglasses is equally equipped for the job. In fact, some sunglasses will cause additional harm by increasing the vulnerability of your eyes.

When vision is darkened by a pair of sunglasses, the pupils dilate to adjust to lower light levels. Unless your sunglasses offer full spectrum UV protection, this dilation can allow harmful rays into the inner chambers of the eye and actually increase risks for eye disease.

The best way to choose effective sunglasses is to explore the selection at your ophthalmologist’s office. While these sunglasses may initially seem more expensive, the protection they offer can help guard your eyes from sun damage and keep your vision strong and clear for years to come.

Are you looking for an ophthalmologist in your area? Please use our eye doctor locator to find an established practice close to you.